Retailers seem to keep moving the various holiday season merchandising ahead earlier and earlier. The day after the 4th of July, endcaps were filled with back-to-school stuff. And just a couple of weeks later, they had Halloween items on the shelves. Do I love it? Not necessarily. But instead of getting all riled up about something I can’t change, I’ve learned to simply embrace the holidays. From Halloween to New Year’s Day, it’s just 60 days. Why not enjoy it?

Get your pumpkins and corn stalks.

A few years ago, there were at least three or four pumpkin patches in the Billings area. Two south of Laurel, one on the West End and the one in the Heights. The business model for pumpkin patches must not be very profitable, because now there are just two in the Billings area.

T&C Farms

Located southwest of Laurel (near the Buffalo Mirage fishing access site, a.k.a “Sportman’s”) is where you’ll find T&C Farms. Since I live in Laurel, this is typically where we take the kids to pick pumpkins. According to an update on their Facebook page, they open for the season on September 23rd at 9 am. They will be open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through the end of October. In addition to pumpkins, they offer a variety of fall produce and have a fun selection of kid’s activities and attractions. There is no admission fee.

The Maize at Grandpa’s Farm

On Billings West End you’ll find The Maize at Grandpa’s Farm. This popular attraction is billed as your “all-in-one fall destination” and they have everything from pumpkins to a petting zoo. The theme for the giant corn maze this year is 150 Years of Yellowstone National Park. General admission is $12 and they are open now on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.

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